Tracking and erosion resistance of RTV silicone rubber: effect of filler particle size and loading

In this study the effect of filler particle size and concentration on the tracking and erosion resistance of silicone rubber loaded with silica and alumina tri-hydrate (ATH) as fillers has been investigated. Samples with different filler particle size and concentrations were tested in an inclined plane tracking and erosion resistance test apparatus. The loss of material is linked with the power dissipated by the fundamental and harmonic components, due to dry band arcing. The results show that smaller particle sizes and higher percentages of fillers, up to 50%, improve the tracking and erosion resistance of silicone rubber.